At the bottom of our rubbish bins, lie the results of our choices about what we buy...
If, what, and where we choose to buy, are key decisions that influence how much waste we produce.
Being a more mindful buyer can save you money, help the environment and support local businesses.
To shop more sustainably and reduce the amount you throw away, check our tips below.
On the theme of buying, the easiest way for us all to waste less is to buy less!
Try resisting the temptation to buy unnecessary items, identify where and when you buy stuff that ends up being thrown away, and focus on buying only what you really need.
If you are tempted, just don't buy something straightaway - give yourself time to think it over.
Charity shops are one of the easiest ways to reduce waste whilst shopping, and you’re probably already going to them!
When you’re next out shopping in the town, challenge yourself to look in charity shops instead of buying brand new.
There are loads of charity shops around and you never know what you might find!
Did you know that 350,000 tonnes of clothing and 100,000 tonnes of electricals are thrown away each year in the UK?
Overbuying cheap and replaceable items is a big reason for this, and can work out more expensive in the long run.
Challenge yourself to avoid buying low-quality items and choose to buy second-hand or repair what you already have.
Freegle is an online platform that allows you to give and get items for free in your local community.
Just post a message or request something you need and exchange items for free with your neighbours.
Join over 21,000 Colchester residents already preventing waste by sharing their pre-loved items on Freegle.
There’s no need to be quiet about the benefits of libraries in Essex.
Being part of a community that shares resources like books and computers is great way to waste less and save yourself money.
Plus, they're great places for safely recycling many items, like batteries!
There's even a 'Love Essex, Go Green' e-book and e-audio collection on Borrowbox, packed with titles that will inspire you to waste less and save more.
Visit the Essex Libraries website to find your nearest library and to join online.
People have been shopping at markets to buy local and buy loose for centuries. Did you know that Colchester Market has been going since 1189?!
Local markets are a great place to find local food, second-hand clothing, and handmade gifts.
If you fancy buying something, take yourself and a reusable bag to a market near you to see what you can find.
Refill shops let you fill up your own containers with exactly the right amount that you need of dry food, spices, toiletries, and even cleaning products.
Many are small independent businesses - another reason to give them some love!
Take a look at what can be bought from a refill shop - you’ll be surprised how much money and waste you may be able to save!
We believe in a world where no one receives a disappointing present...
Instead of clogging up your family and friend's homes with unappreciated clutter, gift them an experience, a handmade gift, or cook them something tasty.
An offer of time or skills can also be more appreciated than another piece of tat they don't really know what to do with!
Not only will you save waste when gifting, but being mindful with your presents can strengthen the bonds between you and your loved ones.
Tell us about what you've been doing to shop more sustainably, and get a bonus entry into the Waste Less Challenge prize draw.
Please see the Waste Less Challenge Competition Notice and Terms and Conditions for full details.
Last year Colchester residents rehomed over 58 tonnes of 'stuff' through the Colchester Freegle group - the equivalent of nine male African elephants!